I like the new website!
The steering is imprecise and difficult to control. The steering wheel feels tight and locks in the direction it is moved to. Simply put, the car wanders back and forth; it takes concentration to stay in the lane. Without my constant concentration, the tires will be hitting the lane bumps/reflectors. The steering is accurate while turning, but will not allow the car to drive in a straight line. The car will wander from point left or right, and I’ll need to correct to the opposite direction. This condition is continuous and I need to correct left/right/left/right, over and over. I love the car, but I’m nervous while driving it because of the steering problem.
The internet posts on this issue bring up items like steering rack, calibrating the electronic steering, tires, alignment, bent frame, worn out suspension (springs, shocks, struts), tire pressure, etc..
I just went for a test drive with the dealers mechanic driving. He drove the car like he was in a race so it was difficult to pick up on the steering issue. Towards the end of the drive, I would say "input" every time he had to move the steering wheel. Someone driving normal speed will need to adjust or input on the steering wheel many more time than is normal or comfortable.
Lexus dealership dismissed my concerns. This is the second time I've brought the car in. They want me to come a third time to test drive a recently acquired RX350 with the same year and mileage. They don't want to admit that there is an issue with the steering and that I should accept it as it is.
Any suggestions?
It's obviously not in working condition and the dealership is just trying to pass the buck to you. Put the spurs to em and don't let them get away with selling you something that's obviously broken. Tell em you let Scotty know what a crooked dealership they are.
Be persistent with the dealer on the issue and take them up on the other rx350 test drive. Ask them to read/print codes (all, not just p codes) out for you too ; )
I agree with Hillbilly, although since this is not the drivetrain issue, unfortunately , they are not obligated to fix it for you.
just one question for you:
Didn’t you test drive before buying it?
or it did not have this issue when you tested it?
@yaser
I did a short test drive and hired a private car checker to go over the car. I really didn't notice the steering issue until I drove the car for an hour.
If you're willing and able, Jack up one wheel at a time. Grab 3-9 o'clock and see if you can make it wobble and hear clunks.
Then do the same for 12-6 o'clock.
If you get movement and clunks, report that to them and demand they fix it. That knowledge will give you more to stand on. Move the wheel lock to lock while parked and see if you get any clunks as well.
If any is abnormal you can go back in and tell them more specifically.
